Dinamika Pertumbuhan Vegetasi Pakan Badak Jawa Pada Tingkat Semai Dan Tumbuhan Bawah Pasca Program Pengendalian Langkap 100% Di Taman Nasional Ujung Kulon

Abstract

The recovery of forage vegetation is a key indicator of habitat improvement for the Javan rhinoceros, a critically endangered megaherbivore restricted to Ujung Kulon National Park. Intensive removal of langkap, a fast-spreading palm species that suppresses understory growth, has been implemented as a major habitat management strategy. This study analyzes the post-control dynamics of seedling and understory vegetation to evaluate the ecological response of forage species following complete langkap removal across designated management plots. Vegetation assessments were conducted to examine changes in species richness, community structure, and the relative abundance of forage and non-forage plants. The findings reveal a marked decline in langkap density accompanied by an increase in the density of forage species, indicating reduced competition for light and space. Diversity and evenness indices demonstrate improved distribution of individuals across species, suggesting a shift toward a more balanced community structure after intervention. Patterns at the sapling level show variable responses among plots, reflecting differing site conditions and recovery trajectories. Overall, the results confirm that langkap control contributes positively to the regeneration of forage plants and can enhance habitat quality for the Javan rhinoceros, provided that follow-up maintenance and continuous monitoring are sustained.